Here is another favourite ancient Christmas hymn of my fiance’s. Enjoy!
Of The Father’s Love Begotten
Of the Father’s love begotten, Ere the world began to be,
He is Alpha and Omega, He the source, the ending he,
Of the things that are, that have been, And that future years shall see,
Evermore and evermore.
O that birth for ever blessed, When the Virgin, full of grace,
By the Holy Ghost conceiving, Bare the Saviour of our race;
And the Babe, the world’s Redeemer, First revealed his sacred face,
Evermore and evermore.
This is he whom seers in old time Chanted of with one accord;
Whom the voices of the prophets Promised in their faithful word;
Now he shines, the long-expected; Let creation praise its Lord,
Evermore and evermore.
O ye heights of heaven, adore him; Angel hosts, his praises sing;
Powers, dominions, bow before him, And extol our God and King;
Let no tongue on earth be silent, Every voice in concert ring,
Evermore and evermore.
Christ, to thee, with God the Father, And, O Holy Ghost, to thee,
Hymn and chant and high thanksgiving, And unwearied praises be:
Honor, glory, and dominion, And eternal victory,
Evermore and evermore. Amen.
Words: Aurelius Clemens Prudentius, 348-413
Music: 13th Century Plainsong Melody
Working out Salvation with Fear and Trembling 